The Harlequin Pinscher is a type of Miniature Pinscher, which is a toy-sized dog. It originated in Germany where it was used to kill rats and mice. It is known by several different names including the Harlequin Pinscher, Spotted Pinscher, Merle Pinscher, Harlequin Miniature Pinscher and the Harlequin Min Pin. It is believed that the Harlequin Pinscher was created in Germany some time during the late 18th century. They were likely the result of crosses between traditional Miniature Pinschers and Toy Fox Terriers or Rat Terriers. While Harlequin and other Min Pins were mainly used for ratting throughout history, they were also cherished pets. Harlequin Pinschers nearly became extinct following World War II; however, a group of enthusiasts worked together to revive the breed by collecting worthy specimens to breed. Today, although the Harlequin Pinscher is rather rare, select Min Pin breeders are working hard to establish it as a pure-breed that is eligible for registration.
Harlequin Pinschers are small dogs that weigh anywhere from eight to ten pounds. They have short hair that can be blue or red merle. The ears can be cropped or left natural. Natural ears should be held erect with half of the ear dropping forward. These are known as rose prick ears. Their tails can be docked or left long.
Personality
Harlequin Pinschers are known for their alert and inquisitive expressions. These little dogs are fearless despite their small size. In fact, many Min Pin fanciers state that the Min Pin is a large dog trapped in a small body. They can also be quite vocal and rambunctious. Harlequin Pinschers originated in Germany and were created by crossing traditional Miniature Pinschers with various toy-sized short-haired terriers. While these tiny dogs were once used as ratters, today they are lovable lap dogs. Furthermore, due to their small size, Harlequin Pinschers are great for people who live in apartments or small homes.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 12 -15 years |
| Nicknames: | Spotted Pinscher, Merle Pinscher, Harlequin Miniature Pinscher, Harlequin Min Pin |
Harlequin Pinscher Build Information
Harlequin Pinschers are small dogs that weigh anywhere from eight to ten pounds. They have short hair that can be blue or red merle. The ears can be cropped or left natural. Natural ears should be held erect with half of the ear dropping forward. These are known as rose prick ears. Their tails can be docked or left long.
| Size: | Small |
Behaviour and Personality
Harlequin Pinschers are known for their alert and inquisitive expressions. These little dogs are fearless despite their small size. In fact, many Min Pin fanciers state that the Min Pin is a large dog trapped in a small body. They can also be quite vocal and rambunctious. Harlequin Pinschers originated in Germany and were created by crossing traditional Miniature Pinschers with various toy-sized short-haired terriers. While these tiny dogs were once used as ratters, today they are lovable lap dogs. Furthermore, due to their small size, Harlequin Pinschers are great for people who live in apartments or small homes.
| Activity Level: | Very active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Kid friendly |
Appearance
The Harlequin Pinscher requires little grooming other than an occasional bathing to keep it fresh and clean. However, you will also want to check its ears regularly for any wax buildup and clip its nails with a guillotine-type nail clipper when necessary. When clipping nails, take extra care not to cut into the veins that are inside each nail.
| Shedding: | Little |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
Harlequin Pinscher Common Health Conditions
There are several health issues that they are susceptible to developing. Some of the more common problems include patellar luxation, cryptorchidism, hypoglycemia, food and skin allergies, hearing loss, glaucoma, and epilepsy.
Harlequin Pinscher Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Harlequin Pinschers are quite healthy and can live 15 years or longer. The Harlequin Pinscher Association is currently the only breed club that recognizes the Harlequin Pinscher. Due to their delicate stature, Harlequin Pinschers are not suited for families with small children. These dogs form strong bonds with their owners and often experience separation anxiety when left alone.
| Training: | Easy |